Texas Senate Bill SB584

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 3/17/09
• Voted on by Senate: 3/23/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/18/09
• Voted on by House: 5/25/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/26/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to notification to a patient of a state-operated mental health facility or resident of a residential care facility of the exemption of certain trusts from liability to pay for support.

Impact

The legislation seeks to amend existing health and safety codes by formalizing the requirement for notification in both mental health and residential care settings. By informing patients and guardians in their primary language and explaining these terms simply within 24 hours of admission, the bill promotes transparency and informed consent regarding financial liabilities. The updates to the notification requirements are aimed at reducing confusion and potential disputes related to the payment for care, ultimately fostering a more structured approach to patient support obligations.

Summary

Senate Bill 584 aims to enhance the clarity of financial responsibilities regarding the support of patients in state-operated mental health facilities and residents of residential care facilities. The bill mandates that upon admission, both patients and their guardians receive a written notice that specifies certain trusts are exempt from being liable for the support payments necessary during their stay. This notification is to ensure that individuals are fully aware of their rights and the financial structures that may impact their support obligations.

Contention

While the bill is straightforward in its aims, there are potential points of contention. Opponents may argue that by exempting certain trusts from liability, this could inadvertently shift the financial burden onto state facilities or taxpayer funds. Critics might express concerns about how these changes could affect funding for mental health services and the broader implications for patient care and support system sustainability. Additionally, ensuring proper communication with individuals who may have disabilities or require assistance presents its own challenges.

Implementation

If enacted, SB584 would require facilities to implement these notification procedures immediately upon a patient's or resident's admission. The requirement for simultaneous oral communication reinforces the importance of understanding these legal and financial documents, particularly for those who may not be familiar with legal jargon or who speak a different language. This initiative may lead to improvements in how mental health and residential care facilities interact with patients and their families, promoting a culture of transparency and accountability.